Countywide Spring Cleanup Event set for May 18

PARKERSBURG -- The 2024 Countywide Spring Cleanup Event will be held at the Erickson All-Sports Facility on May 18 from 8 a.m. until noon.

Wood County Solid Waste Authority is putting on the event in cooperation with other organizations at the complex located at 4601 Camden Ave. in south Parkersburg, said Director Sarah Robinson.

The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection's (WVDEP) Rehabilitation Environmental Action Plan (REAP) has agreed to collect 10 off-the-rim tires per person with proper West Virginia ID. Waste Management will be collecting paint. R&J Recycling has agreed to collect scrap metal and appliances (no TVs or electronics). Tri-State Roofing will be removing freons from all refrigerated appliances. The West Virginia Department of Agriculture will be on hand to collect pesticides.

Residents may call the Authority's office for a list of accepted pesticides.

"New this year Rural Action Zero Waste group will be onsite to collect unwanted slightly used clothing and textiles along with books," Robinson said. "They will also be collecting unopened medical supplies such as bandages/wound care, incontinence underwear, catheters and medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, shower chairs, boots/splints and more.

"These items are then distributed to the public free of charge to those in need."

No pills or prescriptions will be accepted.

The sponsors for this year's event include The Chemours Company, EPI Insulation Co. Inc., Bosley Rental & Supply, R&J Recycling, West Department of Agriculture, WVDEP REAP, Tri-State Roofing, Rural Action Zero Waste, and Waste Management.

Robinson reminded people of the Authority's Borrow a Bin program. They have 40 recycle and 40 trash bins available along with trash bags for collection. Interested people may contact the Authority's office to schedule the trailer to be dropped off at their event.

"The user is in charge of loading and placing receptacles, as well as pickup of actual trash and recycling products," Robinson said.

For more information about the cleanup event or getting the bins, people can call the Wood County Solid Waste Authority at 304-424-1873.